Most Anticipated Kicks for Summer '15: Part 1
The return of summer signifies more than just beach days, cold drinks and lighter clothing. It also marks a time when the biggest sneaker brands on earth start releasing heat that rivals the scorching temperatures across the globe.
Nike, Jordan Brand, Adidas and others have all put together an impressive roster of summertime kicks. And while summer may officially start on June 21, in the world of sneakers, it really commences right after Memorial Day weekend wraps up.
As usual, the agenda here is to bring flavorful sneakers into the sunlight and let them bask a bit. So before we all get caught up in weekly games of Kan Jam and paddleboarding, let's all examine the most anticipated kicks of summer '15, part one.
KD8
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Behind LeBron James, Kevin Durant is the second-most popular athlete when it comes to sneakers, according to SportsScanInfo (h/t Kurt Badenhausen of Forbes).
One reason why is because Nike has done a really solid job building the KD brand over the years. By including various visual elements, colorways and technological mechanisms to each shoe, the KD moniker has become synonymous with success.
Coming off of the KD 7—one of the cleanest looking signature models to come out in recent times—Nike has turned its attention toward revealing the all-new KD8.
Officially, Nike has only released the sketch you see above of the shoe. Having said that, if you get on your Columbo, you can find some other unofficial images floating around the Internet.
The shoe is in-line with Nike's recent basketball kicks. It's almost a cross between a runner and a low-top—like the Kobe X. Once the final versions hit, I promise that you'll understand how righteous a model this really is.
Set to hit stores sometime in July, the KD8 won't disappoint fans of the KD line.
Air Jordan I 'Chicago'
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Jordan Brand's decision to revert to retro classic sneakers has continued to elevate the brand. No matter how many versions come out, the loyal following of Air Jordan junkies never seems to dissipate.
Every time there's a special release, the shoes sell out before most consumers can even get their hands on a pair.
May 30 will bring back one of the most sought after Air Jordan models of all time: The Air Jordan 1 "Chicago." It was one of the first sneakers released that changed the way we look at shoes.
Served up as a tribute his early days with the Chicago Bulls, the "Chicago" edition is dressed in lush reds, crisp blacks and topped off with a clean white midsole. To this day, there aren't many sneakers that stack up to the "Chicago" Jordan 1. The silhouette is timeless, the comfort level is off the charts and the nostalgia factor is out of this world.
Hype will make this shoe very tough to cop. Those lucky enough to nab a pair should take extra special care of these Jumpman jewels.
Brandblack Force Vector
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Brandblack's decision to design a futuristic shoe like the J. Crossover II has really put this design firm on the map. Despite its size compared to brands like Adidas and Nike, Brandblack has pushed forward strictly on the shoulders of their work.
A beautiful shoe isn't the easiest thing to come by these days. It takes a ton of creativity to craft one. In Brandblack's case, it's got a few stunning models in its arsenal. The Force Vector is the latest offering.
Built with Brandblack's advanced technological platform as an anchor, the Force Vector is an airtight shoe that maximizes ankle stability.
Looking like a pair of kicks Elroy would shred with in The Jetsons, the Force Vectors have turned into a must-own summer delight.
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Adidas Crazylight Boost 2015
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Anyone who's read my views on sneakers knows that I absolutely love everything Adidas is doing right now. They're making comfy, sporty and stylish kicks and doing it without mirroring any other heavy-hitters in the industry.
The Crazylight Boost 2015 is a continuation of the Adidas way of life. Dropping in a variety of hues, this sneaker is a follow-up to the Crazylight Boost model that set the basketball world on fire in 2014.
The '15 edition of these kicks comes with a refreshed mesh, Primeknit material and more of that Boost goodness. Worn by NBA players like Mike Conley Jr. during the NBA playoffs, the Crazylights are clearly here to stay.
Check for these on July 1. That's when one of the most comfortable and form-fitting sneakers is set to shake things up like The Rock in San Andreas.
Jordan Eclipse
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The Jordan Eclipse is Jordan Brand's latest venture into the sphere of lifestyle kicks.
Since the shoe itself was constructed around a solid upper, the Eclipse turned out to be remarkably lightweight. It conforms to your foot right away without having to break it in or wear it down.
You might not think of Jordan Brand when it comes to lifestyle shoes, but you should. If the past versions of the Eclipse are any indication of what we can expect, you're going to need these sneakers in your rotation. From the grip panels on the sole to the support lodged into the heel cup, the Jordan Eclipse is one shoe that flat-out works.
Look out for this exclusive summer colorway to hit on June 1.
Diadora N9000 'MM'
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Diadora makes its debut on our most anticipated list thanks to its exceptional N9000 "MM" sneaker.
Glancing over the shoe quickly, you'll notice the Italian-based brand has stuck to its traditional route of doing things. The colorways are subdued, the lines and curves are more fitting than loose and the shoe itself comes with a European vibe.
The main difference between the N9000 "MM" and the original version of the shoe is that this summertime cut is built with a mesh layering. That makes it way more breathable and lightweight.
Projected to be available in early June, the Diadora N900 "MM" is one shoe that keeps this brand fiery as ever.
KD 7 Elite 'Rose Gold'
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Nike's work on the KD7 has been astounding. Even though Durant didn't get a chance to play in these kicks all season, the motif and mechanics of the shoe make it one of the top versions in his signature line.
Basketball shoes have to help a player out on the court. They can't freeze up, feel stiff or lose traction. With the KD 7 Elite "Rose Gold"—or any KD7 model for that matter—that will never be the case.
You don't have to worry about losing control in these sneakers.
Extreme ankle support and a lenient, wide insole are the foundation of the KD 7 Elite. Unlike a pair of Kyrie 1s, these shoes won't feel narrow on your feet.
Revised without the classic lace guard, the "Rose Gold" version is worth copping, even with the KD8 around the bend. It will be a cornerstone piece for Durant fans and on-court savants.
Jordan Future Low
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Remember when lifestyle shoes were nothing more than kicks you'd wear with a pair of denims on a lazy Sunday? These days, those lines have been blurred dramatically, and that's all right.
The Jordan Future is one of those shoes that toes the line between lifestyle and athletic. A one-piece, butyraceous upper checks off the "lifestyle" box, while the Air Jordan XI-inspired sole scores a point for the performance side.
Together those elements have given the Jordan Future a place in the hearts of even the most loyal Air Jordan aficionados.
When Jordan Brand decided it would be a smart idea to create a low-top version of the Futures, who could say no? Everyone loves a good low-top sneaker in his or her life. And with summer hopping down the road, having some extra air breeze across your ankle is going to feel good.
An important note to jot down is that consumers won't lose a ton of support with this version. It still holds up well despite being trimmed down a few inches.
Keep your eyes peeled around June 1 if you want to leap into a pair of Jordan Futures.
Misplaced Checks 'Red'
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Of all the fashionable sneakers to release over the past year, John Geiger's Misplaced Checks series has stood alone. The sheer creative vision displayed by Geiger has shifted the way we look at sneaker culture.
This phenomenon known as Misplaced Checks started with a white pair back in February. Geiger would follow that release with a clean "Black" edition during the spring to keep consumers on their toes.
Now that summer is headed our way, the coveted Misplaced Checks "Red" is coming. Already released in a finite amount during Memorial Day weekend, Geiger's latest creation might end up being the most sought after version of this entire collection.
They're scheduled to arrive in June, and if you can find yourself a pair, you better get down on your knees and thank the sneaker lords. Because these shoes will be remembered five years from now as the ultimate summer '15 grails.
Air Jordan I 'Pinnacle'
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May 30, it's all about the details. The Air Jordan 1 "Pinnacle" finally comes to life, and man that shoe looks good.
The first real power move displayed by Jordan Brand was wrapping the shoe in a python-like material. That proliferated look is in right now, which makes the "Pinnacle" a timely release.
Taking that material and dabbing the eyelets with gold was all that was needed to really push this sneaker over the edge. It's straight-up artwork.
As you can probably tell by looking at it, the Air Jordan I "Pinnacle" won't come cheap. Those looking to get their hands on a pair will have to be ready May 30 to spend a little loot.
All Nike/Jordan product information via News.Nike.com, unless noted otherwise. All Adidas information via News.Adidas.com, unless noted otherwise.
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